Breast Cancer: How Your Diet Plays a Role

There has been much research conducted on the link between diet and breast cancer. There is no consensus on what forms an ideal breast cancer prevention diet. The American Cancer Society provides guidelines for a breast cancer diet and nutrition. It recommends foods that promote a healthy weight, four to five servings of fruits and vegetables everyday, whole grains, less intake of red and processed meats, and abstinence from or limited consumption of alcohol. Breast cancer diets for survivors are also very similar and may include:

Cruciferous Vegetables: Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and brussel sprouts are some of the best components of a breast cancer prevention diet. What are the benefits of cruciferous vegetables? Research shows that the compounds in these vegetables help lower the growth of cancer of the breast, lung, colon, and liver. Other vegetables like rutabaga, radishes, daikon, kohlrabi, collard, turnip greens, and arugula are also ideal in a diet for breast cancer.

Legumes: Beans, peas, and peanuts may not be directly responsible for preventing breast cancer. They are low in fat, high in protein, and nutritious. Moreover, they are rich in antioxidants, which helps reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Garlic and onions: These two root vegetables have strong cancer fighting properties. They are an essential part of a breast cancer prevention diet.

Fruits and berries: Berries such as cranberries have cancer-preventing properties. They contain dietary fiber, antioxidants, folic acid, phenols, and vitamin C. They are low in fat and calories.

Herbs and spices: Turmeric, labiates, apiums, and cinnamon can be included as part of a diet for breast cancer.

Whole grains: Whole grains have many natural compounds, which can lower the risk of breast cancer. These natural compounds have antioxidants, fiber, phenols, and liganans. Whole grain breads, brown rice, and bulgur wheat can be included in the breast cancer diet.

Soybeans: Soy is high in protein and lowers cholesterol and blood pressure. Soy foods contain isoflavones that have antioxidant properties. This helps to prevent tumor growth. The FDA claims that 25 grams of soy protein per day is beneficial.

Fish: Fish and other seafoods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids may combat cancer. They are also low in saturated fats in comparison to meats.

A balanced diet may be the best antidote for many types of cancer, including breast cancer.

PLEASE NOTE: All information presented on Newsmax.com is for informational purposes only. It is not specific medical advice for any individual. All answers to reader questions are provided for informational purposes only. All information presented on our websites should not be construed as medical consultation or instruction. You should take no action solely on the basis of this publication’s contents. Readers are advised to consult a health professional about any issue regarding their health and well-being. While the information found on our websites is believed to be sensible and accurate based on the author’s best judgment, readers who fail to seek counsel from appropriate health professionals assume risk of any potential ill effects. The opinions expressed in Newsmaxhealth.com and Newsmax.com do not necessarily reflect those of Newsmax Media. Please note that this advice is generic and not specific to any individual. You should consult with your doctor before undertaking any medical or nutritional course of action.